‘Time, treasure and talent,’ with a glimmer in the eye: Morristown mourns former mayor Jay DeLaney Jr.

Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. shows off essay book he wrote for his 6th grade teacher, Ann Rhines, at celebration on April 24, 2022. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
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He was a Republican admired by Democrats, a civic leader quick with a smile and a good-natured tweak.

Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. died Sunday morning from esophageal cancer. He turned 68 this month.

Former Mayor Jay DeLaney, right, at the 2022 Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival in September. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

“He was someone who always made people around him laugh, and made sure that anyone in a room with him was comfortable and at ease. More importantly he was an amazing father and grandfather,” said his son Andrew DeLaney, in an online posting.

“It is tough to convey in words all that he did, but his sacrifices to all those around him, including to me, will only come to be more appreciated in time. With love and sadness, we send my Dad on to the next life,” Andrew said.

Jay DeLaney was diagnosed with stage four cancer in July. He felt he could beat it, his wife, planning board member Debra Gottsleben, said last month. But a stroke sent him back to the hospital.

Former Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. and his wife Debra Gottsleben, attend Rotary dedication of Lidgerwood pavilion, May 22, 2022. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

In October the couple celebrated their 40th anniversary and their 50th reunion at Morristown High School, where they had met each other in homeroom 303.

DeLaney was a law partner at Lindabury McCormick in Westfield, and an avid Jets fan and tennis player. Over the years he was active in the Rotary, the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick, and the board of Historic Speedwell. He served as Morristown’s mayor from 1998 to 2006.

‘YOU COULD TRUST HIM’

“I consider him Mr. Morristown,” said former Councilwoman Michelle Dupree Harris, a Democrat. “He had an open heart, an open mind.”

Years ago, DeLaney asked Harris not to run against him for mayor — and to support his candidacy, she said. She obliged.

“You could trust him,” Harris said.

Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr., from the Class of ’72, is acknowledged at MHS 2022 graduation. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

DeLaney was the kind of resident who scooped trash off the sidewalk as he walked downtown, Harris said.

As mayor, he supported efforts by Harris and others in the Second Ward to clean up a former junkyard at Coal Avenue and Center Street (now Bishop Nazery Way), she said.

Former Morristown GOP Chairman Frank Vitolo, a lawyer who briefly crossed swords with DeLaney over a development project last year, praised him as one-of-a kind and part of Morristown’s soul.

“He made innumerable contributions in time, treasure and talent to this community. And it was always with a smile,” said Vitolo, who got a political education from DeLaney when mulling his own council bid.

Mayor Tim Dougherty, left, and former Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. at the Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival, Aug. 19, 2017. Photo by Jeff Sovelove
Mayor Tim Dougherty, left, and former Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. at the Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival, Aug. 19, 2017. Photo by Jeff Sovelove

DeLaney spent hours going over door-knocking lists. “He knew people on every street and in every neighborhood,” Vitolo said. The former mayor advised the newcomer to visit the library, the police and fire headquarters, town hall offices, the housing and parking authorities, and even the sewer plant.

“Jay believed that someone running for office should immerse themselves in the town and its people — like he had done,” Vitolo said.

Although Vitolo lost his 2009 council race, the relationships he forged have proven invaluable, he said. The education continued at the Swiss Chalet bakery, where Vitolo met regularly with DeLaney to trade town tidbits and family talk.

Architect Jeff Rawding and former Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. at Morristown Jazz & Blues Fest announcement, March 30, 2017. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Architect Jeff Rawding and former Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. at Morristown Jazz & Blues Fest announcement, March 30, 2017. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

“Jay always had a handwritten list of topics with him and he would cross them off as we went,” Vitolo said.

“We usually only made it to the middle of the list because Jay would constantly get interrupted by people walking over to say hello and share a story. I learned a lot just watching how Jay interacted with people. He always made them feel special, and was a master at warm introductions.”

DeLaney was undefeated as campaign manager for Ann Rhines, his 6th grade teacher. She was elected several times to the Morris School District board.

At an April event honoring Rhines for her 60-year career, DeLaney offered an apology overdue since 1965.

“I was one of those misbehaved pranksters in my class,” he said with a grin.

Video: Former Mayor Jay DeLaney thanks his 6th grade teacher, April 2022:

‘HE TOOK AS WELL AS HE GAVE’

Dick Tighe, a Democratic councilman when DeLaney was mayor, described him as an upbeat person who showed up for every meeting. “He loved the town, and always tried to do what was right for it,” Tighe said.

It took some persuading, Tighe added, but DeLaney eventually supported the Epstein’s department store redevelopment, a luxury housing project from the early 2000s that helped revitalize the downtown.

Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr. thanks his 6th grade teacher, Ann Rhines, April 24, 2022. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

“Jay was a real gentleman, a gentleman politician,” said George Fiore, who ran the Morristown Parking Authority for nearly three decades.

DeLaney came to meetings and spoke softly but with authority, Fiore said. “He was a good communicator, and just a fair-minded guy.”

Former Mayor Donald Cresitello lost to DeLaney in a GOP primary. Yet they remained friends, he said.

Sandra McNeil Rogers presents her idea for soul food restaurant to the Morristown Planning Board, as her attorney, Jay DeLaney Jr., listens. Photo by Kevin Coughlin
Sandra McNeil Rogers presents idea for soul food restaurant to the Morristown Planning Board in 2017, as her attorney, Jay DeLaney Jr., listens. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

“He served the people of Morristown well…he governed the town properly,” said Cresitello, a Democrat for most of his public career.

He credited DeLaney with advancing projects such as Morristown’s transit village and condo conversions of the Washington School and Vail Mansion.

After leaving public office, DeLaney appeared regularly before Morristown boards, representing clients in zoning and development cases.

Former Councilwoman Alison Deeb, for years the lone Republican on the governing body, considered DeLaney a mentor. She recalled his performance before the council in 2012 as counsel for residents opposing a liquor license transfer.

Jay DeLaney successfully argues against a bowling alley/bar proposed for DeHart Street, July 2012. Video by Kevin Coughlin for MorristownGreen.com:

“I remember this council meeting and thinking to myself, I wish I could be more like him. Not only was he a great public speaker, but he could always make you laugh about something,” Deeb said.

Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney questions applicants about proposed liquor license transfer. Photo by Berit Ollestad
Former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney questions applicants about proposed liquor license transfer in 2012. Photo by Berit Ollestad

DeLaney’s sense of humor amused Bill Swayze when he covered Morristown as a reporter for The Star-Ledger.

“I remember him dressing up in a cow costume for Halloween, a full-body cow getup on South Street,” Swayze said.

Mike Leavy was a site supervisor at Historic Speedwell in the early ’90s when he met DeLaney, a trustee of the historical venue. They got acquainted over a beer, worshiped together at Assumption Church, and rubbed elbows at the Friendly Sons. DeLaney recruited Leavy to handle publicity for the Morris County St. Patrick’s Parade.

That’s former Morristown Mayor Jay DeLaney Jr., at the Morris County 2022 St. Patrick’s Parade. Photo by Kevin Coughlin

DeLaney always had time to talk, Leavy said. The conversation often had a jocular flavor.

“If he liked you, he would bust your chops—but always with a smile and a glimmer in his eye. And he took as well as he gave,” Leavy said. “I’m going to miss him.”

‘HE KEPT THE BALL IN PLAY’

DeLaney was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, to the late Dr. John “Jack” DeLaney and Ruth DeLaney (O’Connor). His family moved to Morristown when he was four.

He graduated from Morristown High School in 1972, from Rutgers University in 1976, and from Syracuse University School of Law in 1979. He clerked for the late Superior Court Judge Reginald Stanton.

Before serving as mayor, DeLaney was an at-large councilman from 1989 to 1993. According to his obituary, his passions included trout fishing, the Knicks, Rangers and Syracuse football and basketball. On his last night, at Overlook Hospital, he watched a televised Syracuse game with his son Andrew.

At the Morristown Field Club, DeLaney was a fierce yet friendly competitor, who preferred “drop shots, lobs, speed changes…and a wink!,” recalled his tennis partner, Keith Kulper.

“I don’t remember him ever intentionally hitting a screamer at an opponent; that wasn’t how Jay played the game.  He’d yell at his partner if a shot got missed, but in the next there’d be that laugh of his and all was immediately forgiven,” Kulper said. DeLaney was like that off the court, too, his friend said.

“He was fun and he kept the ball in play.”

DeLaney’s many memberships included the Great Swamp Watershed Association, the Visual Arts Center, The Knights of Columbus, the Morristown High School Alumni Association, the Morristown Republican Committee and Morristown Beautiful.

John “Jay” DeLaney Jr. is survived by his wife, Debra Gottsleben, who is a librarian at Morristown High; their son Andrew, a lawyer who chairs the Morristown Republican organization; their daughter Erica, who works for a sci-tech company; and a granddaughter, Skylar.

Survivors also include six younger brothers: Dr. Thomas DeLaney (Linda DeLaney), Bill DeLaney (Sarah DeLaney), Frank DeLaney (Barbara “Bobo” DeLaney), Matt DeLaney (Elizabeth “Missy” DeLaney), Bob DeLaney (Noelle DeLaney), and Jim DeLaney (Krista Cowley); and two younger sisters, Mary-Beth Hahn (Nicholas Hahn) and Anne DeLaney (Calvin “Chip” Carver). He also leaves an uncle, Frank O’Connor (Sally Starr) and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A viewing will be held at the Doyle Funeral Home, at 106 Maple Ave. in Morristown, on Tuesday, Nov. 29, from 3 pm to 8 pm. The funeral service is scheduled for Assumption Church at 10 am on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2020.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Great Swamp Watershed Association, Morristown Beautiful, the Morris Educational Foundation (earmarked for the Morristown High School Library), and FreedomHouse NJ (givesmart.com).

This story has been updated with obituary details.

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15 COMMENTS

  1. Jay DeLaney hired me in 2002 as Director of Public Works / Town Engineer. I loved working for and with Jay. He was always compassionate, calm and cheerful. No matter what. And in Morristown there was always a lot going on. He was a people person. You just always felt good when Jay was around. No one loved Morristown more than Jay. My deepest condolences to Jay’s family. Jay was a great man with a lasting legacy, gone way too soon.

  2. Jay was legendary in every way. To quote JFK “The true democracy, living and growing and inspiring, puts its faith in the people – faith that the people will not simply elect men who will represent their views ably and faithfully, but also elect men who will exercise their conscientious judgment – faith that the people will not condemn those whose devotion to principle leads them to unpopular courses, but will reward courage, respect honor and ultimately recognize right.”
    Jay welcomed the differences between Rep & Dems always with wit & wisdom… a true scholar of both law & government he was a resource for me over the years who would always provide unbiased feedback with a twist of humor to boot. David & I will forever be grateful for the gift of your friendship….. rest easy my friend!❤️

  3. I first worked with Jay when I became Mayor of Morris Twp. He was already Mayor in the Town and I wanted to see if we could work out more in the way of shared services. Although we eventually didn’t come up with much, I thoroughly enjoyed working with him. More recently when we were both retired from political life, I’d see him on a Saturday afternoon in Shop-rite and he never failed to take the time to chat, ask how my family was doing, etc. Seldom did we talk politics. He’ll be greatly missed.

  4. Rest in peace Jay. You will always be Mr. Morristown. You always made me laugh and always had a kind word and gave me guidance when I needed to meet with you about Town issues. You are a true patriot to the entire community and they will never forget you.

  5. Dottie and I are very sad to hear of Jays passing He was a wonderful person classmate friend and a great person with foresight to develop of Morristown to the Delaney family we send our condolences love you Dave and Dottie ❤️

  6. Like so many others, I have many fond memories of Jay and his many contributions to Morristown but I think my favorite example of his dedication occurred during the time he was Mayor and I was a Parking Authority Commissioner. The Mayor is expected to attend our meetings and there is a place for him to speak on our agenda. Jay was the only Mayor who bothered to come to our meetings and made worthwhile comments. I told how much our Board appreciated his efforts and he said that he appreciated the opportunity to participate and how much he learned from our policies and procedures. I truly believe that this ability to absorb information and use it in a positive way was why his contributions to making Morristown what it is today will continue to have a positive impact.

  7. It’s with great sadness morristown mourns the passing of a great mayor and leader. Jay was a great guy fair and honest. My condolences to his family.

  8. I have had Jay and his family in my thoughts since the news broke recently of his diagnosis; I was shocked to hear yesterday of his passing and am deeply saddened. Jay was mayor when I first started at the Morris County Tourism Bureau and was extremely supportive of our work. When I sought a portion of the newly created Hotel Occupancy Tax, Jay lent his support and we got a 10% portion! Those funds gave the MCTB its first real infusion of funds which helped stabilize the organization so that it could grow and prosper. Of course, I saw Jay all around town at the many annual events that we both attended, and from time to time walking from place to place – he always had a smile on his face and took the time to chat. Morristown has truly lost a beloved son.

  9. I am very sad to realize the passing of John “ Jay” Delaney . I good man who cared about Morristown, people and most of all his family. Was “Real!”
    What you saw was an educated , caring, common sense leader who was unselfish and kind.
    He appointed me to the Morristown Planning Board in 1998. I received quite and education working on that board with Jay. He always made sure the I’s were dotted and that the t’s were crossed. Everyone’s thoughts and opinions were considered. Jay always encouraged board members to get out and see ,and “walk “ any project that was being considered for development. He always told us that these projects will impact the present and the future.He rightfully made members aware of their responsibilities to the community . He hoped everybody would care like he did.
    Jay had a talent for working with people. He would have been a good head football coach. He came from a large family so I think that’s where he got that style.
    He could see things that others missed in a concept and that was his strength. The meetings were always held in a classy manner ,where all of the members of the public were treated with respect and courtesy. All were allowed to present all of their thoughts and ideas.
    When Jay became mayor of Morristown in 1998, the town was in debt over $150,000,000 million dollars! That was more then the city of Atlanta Ga. at the time. Who would want that job? Jay cared about the town so much he believed he could help it, and he did!
    He won the election in a place where republicans were not known or understood. In 1997 he knocked on every door in town , some even a few times and sold people on how he could help them!
    From time to time I would see Jay out and about town. He would ask me how I was doing and hoped I was doing well. Never a rude word or an unkind word about others. He always took the high road. Not a gossip or ever kicking anyone who was down. That always impressed me .
    In summation , if you ever really want to know what John “ Jay “ Delaney was like
    ………….spend some time with his family.
    His wife is kind , caring and smart like him. His children are wonderful.
    Over the past few years I have been blessed to know his son Andrew Delaney who is also and lawyer like his father.
    The more time I spent and worked with Andrew I used to think to myself , this guy did not just become a good lawyer and a fine human being , it had to be his parents Jay and Debbie who made him like this, and they did!
    Andrew used to tell me he was close to his father. He used used to tell me about the football games they would drive up to attend.I always tell Andrew stories about my experiences of running for office in town and Jay’s
    name always finds its way in some of those stories. I always tell him about many of the issues Jay faced and how he handled them. Some of the stories are funny and we laugh ,but others make us realize how much time , heart and dedication his father gave to the Morristown community!
    My heart and prayers are with his good family at this time of loss.
    Jay will be missed but his positive impact will live on in others. And the Morristown is a better place because he lived there!

  10. I just saw Jay and Debbie while attending our 50th Morristown High School reunion Class of 72. All of us classmates are devastated on the loss of our dear friend. When they made Jay, they threw away the mold! There was no one like him and will never be again. Our hearts and prayers go out to Debbie and the kids. May his perpetual light shine down upon all of us. Until we meet again my dear friend.❤️🙌❤️

  11. Jay always had a smile on his face with an infectious laugh. He is truly a great man and will be missed in Morristown. He helped me tremendously during my political career on the Committee and as Mayor in the Township. I will always remember his wisdom….and of course his great jokes🥲

  12. It’s hard to know where to begin. Jay used to say his job was balancing the demands of “Polly the Preservationist and Danny the Developer”. He did so with ease and good humor – making sure everyone was heard and the public was involved. There was no arm-twisting, nor ego. It was never about him, it was all about Morristown. Look around today; the smart growth you see began with the redevelopment on Cattano Avenue, and the 2000 Master Plan. Jay’s legacy is permanent, and for that we can all be thankful.

  13. Jay and I worked together when he was the mayor and I was the Morristown planner. We also worked together after we had left our respective positions. But in addition to being professional colleagues, I also considered him a good friend and will always remember the fun times we had when we got together for dinner with our wives. The world has lost a good person too soon. But the memory of him will live on in those of us who knew him.

  14. What an extraordinary man, Jay Delaney. I knew him first when we lived in the same housing complex and fought, together, to secure town service for our garbage of all things; we’ve been friends since. He officiated at the wedding of my daughter, Eve, and added to this joyous proceeding his usual good humor and asides! He was a constant presence in and around town, and always, always a positive one. Jay was Morristown’s most effective advocate. And, he made Morristown a better place. I can’t yet begin to process the reality of not seeing Jay, on my walks, at the Swiss Chalet Bakery, or, while dining in town; he was always a welcome “intruder.” Jay Delaney’s absence will create a hole in the heart of Morristown.

  15. I am very sorry about the passing of Jay Delaney and I offer condolences to his wife, children and many friends. Jay was mischievous, incredibly good-hearted, impactful, and fun to be around. He really did have that proverbial twinkle in his eye. I would chat with him at the library, at Morristown clean-up days, or in seeing him on The Green or taking a walk. His death is devastating and I’m so sorry and thank Morristowngreen.com for capturing his lovely spirit in the story.

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